Redmond High School senior Ananya Srivastava has been named one of 620 semifinalists in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Srivastava is one of only 14 students from Washington state selected. The semifinalists were chosen from nearly 5,600 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in the year 2020. 

Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 56th year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities. A distinguished panel of educators have reviewed these submissions and selected 620 semifinalists. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 20 eminent community members appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May. Scholars will be invited to Washington, DC, for several days in June to receive the Presidential Scholar Medallion at a recognition ceremony and to participate in events and activities. According to the program website, these dates are subject to change and will be solidified after U.S. Presidential Scholars are announced.